Rain, glorious rain!

Yes, I know there's been reports about severe storms in Southern California. But that's far away from here, and furthermore, we're in the rain shadow of the Santa Cruz Mountains. Even in a good year, we don't get more than 15 inches of rain, most of it in the spring.

For now, I couldn't be happier. Rain has finally managed to moisten the area under the redwood trees. Rain and wind have made short work of the last of the liquidambar leaves. Rain has brought forth seedlings of the California annuals I planted last year. Rain has filled the birdbath to the brim.

Even more amusing, mushrooms are springing up all over the garden.

Regrettably, no edible mushrooms. But still, a sign that all is well.

The welcome rains are soaking the garden, nurturing my California native shrubs and perennials. Listening to drumming of the rain on the skylights, I sleep well and dream of the wildflowers soon to come.